# What Causes Depression?

- Link: https://www.alquimedez.com/what-causes-depression
- Published: 2021-09-13T07:41:24+00:00
- Author: alquimedezhemo

A significant part of the population is affected by depression, and it can affect
people of all ages, ethnicities, and income groups. Unfortunately, despite the widespread
prevalence of depression, the root causes of the disorder are still unknown. Research
has shown that numerous different factors can lead to depression, and sadly, some
causes cannot be prevented.

Following are eight of the most common known causes of depression:
 **Family History
And Genetics** Research has shown that people who have a family history of depression
or mental disorders are at a higher risk of having depression. However, some researchers
are not entirely convinced about the link between depression and the various genetic
risk factors.

**Chemical Imbalance In The Brain**
 Chemical substances known as neurotransmitters
play an important role in normal brain function, including mood regulation. Neurotransmitters
are responsible for helping different areas of the brain to communicate with each
other. If there is a decrease of neurotransmitters in the brain, it can lead to 
depression.

**Female Hormonal Imbalance**
 Research has proven that women are twice as more 
likely to have depression than men, and the disorder is more common in women in 
their reproductive years. Therefore, researchers believe that the female hormone
is a significant risk factor for depression.

**Disturbance In Circadian Rhythm**
 The disturbances in sleep cycles and the natural
internal processes that regulate sleep when the season changes can be the cause 
of the seasonal affective disorder, also known as SAD, which is a type of depression.

**Poor Nutrition**
 There is a reason why we are told to maintain a balanced diet.
Too much or too less of anything can be harmful to our body. Similarly, according
to research, it has been discovered that excessive intake of high sugar foods, processed
foods, high-fat dairy products, and fried foods; and deficiency of essential vitamins
and minerals can lead to depression.

**Drug and Alcohol Addiction**
 People have to keep in mind that there is a difference
between having a drink or two occasionally to relieve stress, but if you depending
on drugs and alcohol to overcome your anxiety and sadness; this situation can be
alarming. Drug and alcohol abuse should not be taken lightly as it can highly contribute
to severe depressive disorders.

**Physical Health Issues**
 The connection between your body and mental health is
very strong. Thus, it is highly likely that if you are facing long-term health issues,
you might be going through depressive episodes. So, it is advised to check with 
your mental health provider if you are going through a long-term disease.

**Stressful Life Events**
 People react differently to loss and grief and stressful
life events. Not everyone can cope up with the stress. Although, symptoms like loss
of interest, poor diet, sleeping troubles, and being inactive may be temporary, 
if the symptoms prolong and are not subsiding with time, consult a professional 
mental health expert. There are many mental health providers in the Bronx; thus,
you should never delay your visit to a mental health professional because untreated
depression can be a matter of life and death.